Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Potosí, Minor basilica in Potosí, Bolivia
The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace faces Plaza 10 de Noviembre with a flat ashlar facade of pale grey and tan stone. A square bell tower with a domed top and clock stands on the left, a smaller domed tower on the right, and three dark arched doorways open at the top of a stepped base. Inside, three naves of equal height are separated by columns with four-lobed sections and carved capitals, and a dome rises 6.6 metres over the crossing.
A first church, built from 1548 and rebuilt from 1572 under Viceroy Francisco de Toledo, stood here until its tower collapsed in 1807. Friar Manuel de Sanahuja began the present cathedral on 6 September 1808; work continued for 27 years through the independence wars and ended in 1836. It was consecrated on 4 April 1838 under Marshal Andrés de Santa Cruz, with Archbishop José María Mendizábal officiating.
The name reflects deep devotion to Mary that has shaped Potosí's spiritual life for centuries. Locals gather here during religious celebrations and processions that mark the calendar year.
The building sits centrally at Plaza 10 de Noviembre, reachable on foot via Potosí's main streets and pathways. Visitors can wander through the interior at their own pace to view religious artworks and appreciate the architectural details.
Industrialist Simón Patiño donated the organ used for musical ceremonies, reflecting how Potosí's wealth shaped this building. His gift shows how local business leaders invested in the place's beauty and function.
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